May 7 2011 saw MSC Cruises’ first departure from Southampton and to celebrate, the company organised a spectacular onboard event.

A lucky group of local residents were given an exclusive peak behind the scenes of the state-of-the-art MSC Opera as she arrived for her debut season of cruises from Southampton.

Together with media representatives, travel agents and other VIPS they were treated to a spectacular variety show – including flamenco dancing, juggling and gymnastics – followed by an eight-course lunch in La Caravella, MSC Opera’s sumptuous restaurant.